Paul Prenderville

England's Beth Cobden will miss Netball World Cup

Roses World Cup squad will be named live on Sky Sports News on Thursday May 23

Last Updated: 14/05/19 11:31am

Beth Cobden suffered a ruptured cruciate ligament injury playing for Adelaide at the weekend

England have confirmed that the knee injury suffered by Adelaide Thunderbirds' Beth Cobden will keep her out of this summer's Netball World Cup.

Cobden, part of England's victorious Commonwealth Games winning squad last April, went down with the injury on Saturday and a statement from the Thunderbirds on Tuesday confirmed fears that a second ruptured ACL in two years had been suffered and the 26-year-old will now undergo surgery.

The mid-courter will now miss out on the Roses' final squad, due to be named on Thursday May 23 and coach Tracey Neville was quick to offer her support after Cobden's absence was confirmed by England Netball.

"Beth is an exceptional athlete and her contribution to our team over the last four years has been influential in the success of the Roses," said Neville.

Cobden has been a key player for England over the last two years

Expert's verdict - Tamsin Greenway

We all keep an eye on the Suncorp and everybody was just hoping it wouldn't be the worst but it is and I'm absolutely gutted for her this close to a home World Cup after Commonwealths.

She's worked so hard to get back after the one she suffered in the Grand Final last year.It's a big loss for England because she gave us so many options in the mid-court which is crucial in a World Cup in replacing like-for like in that rotations.

"To miss out on her first opportunity to go to a World Cup is devastating and we will do everything we can to ensure she is back on court soon."

Cobden also went down in last year's Vitality Superleague Grand Final for Loughborough but recovered sufficiently to earn a move to Adelaide and Australia's high profile Suncorp Super Netball competition.

Adelaide now begin the search for a replacement after the blow of losing the Roses star.

Cobden will now undergo surgery on her second serious knee injury

"We are saddened by the news regarding Beth's season-ending injury and our priority right now is supporting Beth and ensuring she is okay," Adelaide General Manager Melody Cooper told the franchise's website.

"Beth possesses amazing strength and will overcome this challenge. We love the contagious attitude Beth brings to the club and our focus is now on providing her the best recovery and rehabilitation."

Absolutely devastated for @BethCobs1 sport can be so cruel... unfortunately it is the harsh reality of playing to the highest level though. I know Beth will pick herself up & get back fitter, strong, becoming a better player & better person! Sending love xxx https://t.co/nkl13GCwOU